Norwich police charge shop employee with buying stolen property

Norwich – Police arrested the husband of the owner of a now-defunct precious metal and gold exchange in Norwich today on charges he purchased stolen jewelry.

Young S. Lee, 54, of 86 Otrobando Ave., unit 27, is a former employee at Top Jewelry. His wife and owner of the business, Sun K. Lee, already faces charges of selling stolen merchandise and continuing to operate the 223 Main St. shop after her license was revoked.

Young Lee was charged by warrant with dealing in precious metals without a license, dealing in precious metals violation and sixth-degree larceny by possession.

Investigation into the shop began in August after police learned Young Lee had purchased jewelry found to be stolen in a residential burglary. Norwich Police Investigator Steven Schmidt conducted an investigation that led to the recovery of the jewelry.

Top Jewelry had been the subject of several police investigations. On Aug. 12, police conducted an undercover operation at the business and executed a search and seizure warrant after receiving complaints the business was failing to follow regulations and has accepted stolen items on several different occasions, according to Norwich Police Sgt. James C. Tetreault.

Sun Lee was first arrested for violations pertaining to precious metal transactions and later for allegedly running the business after the permit was revoked.

Tetreault said Sun Lee has since closed the business and moved out of the storefront.

Young Lee was held on a $100,000 court set bond and is scheduled to appear Tuesday in Norwich Superior Court.

Norwich Police remind individuals looking to operate a similar type business, such as a pawn shop, that there are specific laws regulating how business must be conducted. Tetreault said such regulations include asking the seller for identification.

The goal of police, he said, is to encourage voluntary compliance and educate business owners. Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Det. Trevor Robinson, the crime prevention officer at (860)886-5561, extension 157.